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We speak to Brendan Hegarty, Head of Sky Communal TV Solutions and Independent Retailers, about the business and the digital switch over.
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What does it say on your business card? Brendan Hegarty, Head of Sky Communal TV Solutions and Independent Retailers Where are you based and how many people do you employ? BskyB is based in Isleworth, west London and more than 3,000 people work here. |
What is the Digital TV switchover?
Digital TV switchover is the process of turning off the UK’s existing analogue TV signal and replacing it with a new, stronger digital signal.
Why is this happening?
The UK government took the decision to make the switch because digital TV uses less broadcast space, this means that after switchover there will be more room for new services such as wireless broadband, local TV and High Definition (HD) TV.
When is this happening?
Digital TV switchover has been happening for well over a year. London is the final major TV region to go digital, the switchover of the Crystal Palace TV transmitter to a digital signal starts on 4 April this year and is set to be completed by 18 April.
What do landlords and managing agents need to do?
To ensure residents’ TV viewing is uninterrupted, Landlords and managing agents of blocks of flats need to ensure that their communal TV systems are ready to receive a digital signal. This may mean an upgrade of an existing system or a complete replacement.
How much will it cost to make the switchover?
This completely depends on the individual block and the communal TV requirements. Sky has two types of communal TV systems, a platform neutral Integrated Reception System (IRS) and the competitively priced Shared Dish system.
How can Sky help?
We have a specialist Switchover Team in place to help advise landlords and managing agents on the specific requirements of individual blocks or entire property portfolios. They can assess what needs to be done to prepare for digital switchover whilst also helping liaise with residents. For more information go to www.sky.com/managersor call 08442 410 331.
Is Sky offering any special promotions /incentives?
Subsidies are on offer for the Shared Dish systems and lease options are available for IRS.
What’s your favourite night out?
A decent gastro pub with a good choice of real ales, great food, close friends, and a bit of sport in the background
Where was your last holiday?
Family holiday with my wife & 2 daughters just north of Biarritz on the West coast of France
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